What should replace a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder?

Question

I have a friend who owns a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder SE. To my knowledge, they (her husband and she) financed the car and have at least a few more years to pay it off (at about $350/month). But filling it up has become a problem because it will typically run about $60-70 each time and apparently they can't afford that. The space is necessary as they have one daughter in college and another one who is 7. They live in the city and it's their only car but they bought the vehicle, I believe, with their college-age daughter in mind. Now that daughter wants a slightly used Toyota Matrix for herself while she's in college and they want to buy something less inefficient for themselves.

What kind of comparable vehicles are there that get markedly better mileage? Style is a consideration. No Hyundais or Kias for them. Leather should be at least an option but fuel consumption/cost at the pump is of paramount importance.

Answer 1

A Nissan Murano CVT, Pontiac Vibe, Honda CR-V, Toyota Highlander, Isuzu Ascender, Mazda Tribute are very fuel efficient crossover suv's

Answer 2

Right now they will get about $2000.00 trade in, if they are lucky. NOBODY wants the big gas hogs on their lot these days!!

Answer 3

-toyota highlander (hybrid)

-ford escape

-honda element

i understand that while style is a consideration, a minivan would be best here

toyota sienna and honda oddessy were tops

but they could opt for a mazda5;

-stylish

-only 4 banger so good MPG

-extremely versatile for  its size

Answer 4

The Vibe and Matrix have a lot of room for their EPA estimated 32MPG.  With that car, you're looking at realistically $40.00 fillups every 350 miles or so.  Slightly larger options (and more gas-thirsty) would be the CR-V, RAV-4, Escape, Murano.  Also consider the Subaru Forester.